10/13/20 Quick Thoughts and a Couple Ideas

TO:
Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service (WIPPS)
Student Journalism Program Media Partners

FROM:
Roger Utnehmer, Director
Student Journalism Program
Utnehmer@gmail.com
920 495 9677

RE: Quick Thoughts and a Couple Ideas

I’ve probably shared with you the simple employment agreement outlining the expectations of students participating in the DoorCountyDailyNews.com student journalism program.

If you would like a copy or would be wiling to share yours with others please let me know.  The short memo covers compensation, the process of approving a story and some basic guidelines on writing for radio.

Last week I watched the new Netflix documentary “The Social Dilemma.”  This is a must-watch for all of us with ties to media and an important discussion-starter for journalists.  Reactions to it could make a very interesting series for an enterprising student journalist.

At WIPPS we’re looking for ideas to make this program simple and easy for you, our media partners.  We do not want to overwhelm you with messages or reports.

Please remember that your suggestions, comments or questions are always welcome.

Some possible ideas for student stories include the following:

  • …have students watch the Netflix documentary and write about their reaction.
  • …what do city high school students get out of belonging to FFA (formerly known as Future Farmers of America.)?
  • …some municipalities are recruiting high school students to work as poll workers for the Nov. 3rd election.  Any student interest in becoming poll workers?  Process?
  • …have any activities or programs actually seen an increase in participation because of Covid?  What has been the impact on others?
  • …California is considering a proposal to lower the voting age to 16.  What do students consider to be the pros and cons of doing that in Wisconsin?
  • …for school districts holding a building or over-ride referendum, what is the student perspective?
  • …how green is your school?  What can make it more environmentally sensitive?

Again, please let me know if I can share with you the student journalist agreement I used at DoorCountyDailyNews.com.  And feel free to share any best-practice of ideas you may have by emailing me at utnehmer@gmail.com.

Thank you.